Buried Beneath the Boardwalk: Neptune Ghouls and Ghost Tours

Explore Virginia Beach’s Haunted Past with a Local Guide

The Buried Beneath the Boardwalk: Neptune Ghouls and Ghost Tours offers an intriguing look at Virginia Beach’s shadowy history. For $24 per person, guests embark on a 1-hour guided walk through the city’s historic district, led by a local expert who shares credible, well-researched ghost stories. The tour starts at the King Neptune Statue on 3001 Atlantic Avenue, where guides, identifiable by a lantern and US Ghost Adventures t-shirt, gather everyone 15 minutes before departure.

While this tour is not designed to be a scare-fest, it provides a fascinating blend of ghostly tales and historical background. It suits those interested in local legends, spooky lore, and Virginia Beach’s haunted sites. Keep in mind, the tour takes place rain or shine, involves walking for up to a mile, and is not wheelchair accessible. If you enjoy stories of pirates, witches, sirens, and shipwrecks, this tour delivers a compelling glimpse into the town’s eerie history.

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Key Points

• Duration: Only 1 hour, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule
• Cost: $24 per person, offering good value for a ghost story experience
• Start Point: Meets at the King Neptune Statue on Atlantic Avenue
• Led by: A knowledgeable local guide with credible history and authentic ghost stories
• Highlights: Includes stories about the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum and the 1891 shipwreck
• Accessibility: Not suitable for people with mobility impairments; rain or shine activity

The Starting Point at the King Neptune Statue

The tour begins at the iconic King Neptune Statue on Atlantic Avenue, a well-known landmark in Virginia Beach. Guides, easily identified with a lantern and branded US Ghost Adventures t-shirt, arrive 15 minutes early to welcome guests. This meeting spot makes it convenient for visitors staying nearby or walking from hotel accommodations along the boardwalk.

The group size remains manageable, allowing for engaging storytelling and interaction. The evening timing lends a suitably spooky atmosphere, whether it’s a warm summer night or cooler fall evening. Since no transportation is included, visitors should plan to arrive on foot or via local transit.

Walking Route Through Virginia Beach’s Haunted District

The tour takes guests through the historic district, where the streets are dimly lit, perfect for setting a ghostly mood. While specific stops are not detailed extensively, the tour includes notable sites such as the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum and areas connected to the 1891 shipwreck. Each location is chosen for its eerie stories and supposed hauntings.

Walking at a relaxed pace, the guide shares tales of murderous sirens, undead witches, and pirates, weaving a narrative that combines history and supernatural legends. The focus on credible, local stories ensures an authentic experience, even if the actual “sights” may be limited or subtle.

The Guide’s Style and Knowledge

A key strength of this tour is the expertise of the guide. One review highlights a guide named Justin, who made the experience enjoyable through his friendly demeanor and knowledgeable storytelling. The guide keeps the audience engaged, balancing historical facts with spooky tales, making the evening both informative and entertaining.

However, some feedback points out that storytelling might be TMI at times, and the pace can feel slow if the stories don’t resonate. Regardless, a well-informed guide enhances the experience, making each stop more meaningful and atmospheric.

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The Experience of the Ghostly Encounters

While the tour is not explicitly designed to deliver scare after scare, the dark streets and mysterious stories create a thoroughly spooky ambiance. Guests are encouraged to stand on haunted grounds and imagine the spirits lurking in historic buildings. The after-hours setting amplifies the ghostly vibe, making it a fun and spine-tingling adventure.

The stories about ghosts of shipwreck victims and haunted landmarks add a layer of mystique that appeals to anyone curious about Virginia Beach’s supernatural reputation. Expect a blend of chilling tales and intriguing history, perfect for relaxed evening entertainment.

Practical Details: Price, Duration, and What’s Included

The $24 fee covers the entire 1-hour walking tour, led by a knowledgeable guide. The tour includes authentic local ghost stories and well-researched history, making it a cost-effective way to explore the haunted side of Virginia Beach.

What’s not included: transportation to the meeting point and guide tips, which are customary but at the guest’s discretion. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and dress weather-appropriate, as the tour takes place rain or shine. Video recording and smoking are prohibited, maintaining a respectful and safe environment.

Accessibility and Physical Considerations

This tour involves walking up to a mile through the historic district streets. It is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or those unable to walk distances comfortably. The activity is primarily conducted on paved sidewalks, but uneven terrain or limited seating could be a concern for some guests.

Guests are advised to ensure they are prepared for nighttime walking in potentially cooler or damp weather, emphasizing the importance of comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing.

Comparing the Tour to Other Virginia Beach Activities

This ghost tour offers a more intimate and atmospheric experience compared to larger, bus-based ghost excursions. Its focus on credible stories and local legends sets it apart from more sensationalized options. The small group size and local guides foster engaging storytelling, making it ideal for history buffs or those interested in paranormal tales.

While some reviews note that the tour is more about history than scares, the unique setting along the boardwalk and historic district provides a charming backdrop for ghost stories. For visitors seeking a relaxed, culturally enriching experience, this tour hits the mark.

Limitations and Considerations for Bookings

The tour has mixed reviews. Some praise the knowledgeable guides and authentic stories, while others find the storytelling too slow or the stops somewhat disconnected from the tales. The extra charges for add-ons during booking might feel awkward for some guests, so it’s wise to clarify whether additional stops are included or require extra fees.

The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 indicates satisfaction overall, but potential attendees should be aware that this is not a thrilling scare tour, but rather a storytelling experience. It is best suited for those who enjoy history, legends, and a relaxed walk in the evening.

Final Thoughts on Buried Beneath the Boardwalk Ghost Tour

This 1-hour ghost tour offers a affordable and authentic way to explore Virginia Beach’s haunted history. Led by local guides with credible stories, it balances entertainment with education. The evening walk through historic streets creates a fitting spooky atmosphere without feeling overly intense or commercial.

While it may not satisfy those seeking frightening scares, it appeals to history enthusiasts, curious visitors, and anyone interested in local legends. Its small group size and informative guides make for an enjoyable, laid-back adventure into Virginia Beach’s ghostly past.

Visitors should be prepared for walking, dress for the weather, and arrive early at the meeting point. This tour provides a solid, well-rounded experience of Virginia Beach’s haunted heritage at a reasonable price.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts exactly 1 hour.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the King Neptune Statue on 3001 Atlantic Avenue.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, it is not wheelchair accessible.

What is the price?
The tour costs $24 per person.

What is included?
The fee covers the guided walking tour, credible ghost stories, and local expert narration.

Do I need to tip the guide?
Tips are not included and are at the guest’s discretion.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Guests should wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing.

Is this tour scary?
No, it’s more focused on interesting stories and local legends rather than scares.

Is the tour available rain or shine?
Yes, the tour operates rain or shine.

Are there any extra costs?
Additional stops or add-ons may incur extra charges if booked during the process.

Would this experience appeal to me?
If you enjoy history, legends, and a relaxed ghost walk, this tour offers a worthwhile experience in Virginia Beach.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby